Functional mushrooms

Medicinal mushrooms, also called functional mushrooms, are mushrooms used for their health-promoting properties. They contain substances that can support our well-being and immune system and promote overall health.

In Asia, such as China and Japan, functional mushrooms have been a part of traditional medicine for centuries. Today, these mushrooms are becoming increasingly popular (as supplements) in the West, thanks in part to increasing knowledge about their health benefits.

Below you can read more about the most well-known species that you can also find in our assortment.

Cordyceps is a rather unusual mushroom. In fact, this fungus grows (originally) on caterpillars of a type of beetle. These days, most Cordyceps is cultivated for use in mushroom supplements and the species is becoming increasingly rare in the wild.

Cordyceps has been used for centuries in the traditional medicine of countries such as China, Tibet and Nepal. The cordyceps mushroom contains substances that support the immune system and regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels. It is also considered an adaptogen, meaning it can help the body reduce stress and improve overall health. 

Cordyceps is also a popular choice among athletes. Many people find that unlike other supplements and workout supplements that often contain caffeine, it provides a type of energy that feels more calm and less jittery. 

Also see our blog: Cordyceps: what makes this mushroom so special?

Lion's mane, also known as pom pom or bearded tooth, is a type of mushroom that grows on trees in the Northern Hemisphere. This mushroom has been used for centuries in traditional medicine in countries such as China and Japan. Lion's mane contains several substances that support the immune system and can improve brain function. It also contains antioxidants, which protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. 

In the world of microdosing, Lion's mane has become known for the "stamets stack": a microdosing protocol  invented by renowned mycologist Paul Stamets. Together with a low amount (microdose) of psilocybin truffles or mushrooms and niacin, Lion's mane is said to provide an extra boost to the brain.

Read more: The benefits of Lion's mane and microdosing 

Turkeytail (Trametes versicolor) is a type of mushroom found throughout the world. This mushroom somewhat resembles the fan-shaped feather tail of a turkey, hence the name Turkey Tail. 

Turkeytail is now one of the most researched functional mushrooms, but has been used for centuries in the traditional medicine of countries such as China and Japan. Turkeytail contains substances that support the immune system and aid digestion. This medicinal mushroom also contains a high concentration of antioxidants, which protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a type of mushroom that grows on trees, especially birch, in the Northern Hemisphere. It has been used for centuries in the traditional medicine of countries such as Russia and northern Europe. In the Netherlands, chaga can also be found in birch forests.

Chaga contains substances that support the immune system and regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels. It is also high in levels of antioxidants, which protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.

Chaga is often used to improve overall health and to improve digestion. It is also sometimes used to care for the skin and reduce stress.

There are many other types of functional mushrooms that are used for their health-promoting properties. Some examples include:

Reishi: promotes overall health and is used to reduce stress.

Maitake: promotes overall health and is used to regulate blood pressure and blood sugar.

Shiitake: supports the immune system, digestion and your cardiovascular system (heart and blood vessels)

Functional mushrooms can be used in a variety of ways. A popular method is to use them in powder form, which can be added to smoothies, soups or other dishes. You can also take supplements in capsule form or make tea from the (fresh or dried) mushrooms.

Keep in mind that medicinal mushrooms are not miracle drugs and that it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, with a balanced diet and adequate exercise. Are you taking medication or have a medical condition? If so, always discuss the use of medicinal mushrooms with your doctor.

It is also important to know that not all functional mushrooms are the same (in terms of strength and quality) and dosages may vary. Always follow the directions on the package and consult a doctor or professional nutritionist if you are unsure about how best to use functional mushrooms in your daily life.

We are a proud supplier of Foodspores, the Netherlands-based brand offering Europe's highest quality functional mushroom extracts. This allows you to take full advantage of the health-promoting effects in both the short and long term. The products are available in capules and liquid extracts.

When you buy your mushroom supplements from us, you can count on the very best quality and excellent service at a fair price. We purchase all Foodspores products directly from the manufacturer and do not keep large inventories to ensure maximum freshness.